The Life Cycle of Wasps in the UK

At Peskey Solutions, we provide expert wasp nest removal services across Hertfordshire. Understanding the life cycle of wasps can help you identify and manage wasp problems before they become a serious nuisance.

The Four Stages of a Wasp’s Life Cycle

1. Spring – The Queen Awakens & Starts a Nest

In early spring (March – May), the queen wasp emerges from hibernation after surviving the winter in a sheltered location.
She searches for a suitable place to build a nest, often in lofts, sheds, wall cavities, or trees.
Using chewed wood and saliva, she constructs a small nest and lays her first batch of eggs.

2. Summer – The Colony Grows Rapidly
By late spring and early summer (May – July), the eggs hatch into worker wasps, which take over nest expansion and food collection.
The queen continues laying eggs, and the nest can grow to house thousands of wasps.
Wasps feed on insects, nectar, and sugary substances, making them common in gardens and outdoor spaces.

3. Late Summer – Peak Activity & Aggression
By August and September, the nest reaches its peak size, with thousands of wasps inside.
As food sources dwindle, wasps become more aggressive, often scavenging around bins, food, and drinks.
The colony also produces new queens and male drones to mate and continue the life cycle.

4. Autumn & Winter – The Colony Dies Off
In October and November, the newly mated queens leave the nest to find shelter for winter.
The rest of the colony, including the original queen and workers, dies as temperatures drop.
Old nests are never reused, but new queens will often build in similar locations, making professional removal essential.

Why You Should Remove a Wasp Nest

🚨 A wasp nest can grow rapidly, posing a serious stinging hazard to homes and businesses.
🚨 Wasps become aggressive in late summer, increasing the risk of attacks.
🚨 Early removal prevents wasps from returning to familiar nesting sites next year.